The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has demanded an extensive probe into the Eastwind Aviation helicopter crash into the Bonny River in Rivers State that killed eight workers, including two crew members, on Thursday.
Recall that the helicopter left the Port Harcourt Military base to FPSO NUIM ANTAN (offshore Calabar) on October 24, 2024, before the tragic crash.
NLC, in a statement by its President, Joe Ajaero, among others, said, “It is with profound sorrow that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) acknowledges the devastating news of the EastWind Aviation helicopter crash on October 24, 2024.
“This tragic incident claimed the lives of eight dedicated Nigerian workers on duty while on their way to FPSO NUIM ANTAN off the coast of Calabar from Port Harcourt.
“As these workers ventured forth in service to our nation, they encountered fate’s cruel blow, reminding us once again of the sacrifices Nigerian workers make daily to build a Nigeria that caters to all.
“This heartbreaking loss of life underlines the perilous conditions our workers often face. It speaks to the urgent and absolute necessity of prioritizing workers’ health and safety—ensuring that Nigerian workers, in any sector, do not risk their lives each day to contribute to national progress. No worker should face death or injury as a consequence of simply doing their job. We implore the government and all authorities tasked with Occupational Safety and Health to redouble their efforts to guarantee that workplaces—and all
avenues to and from work—are made as safe as possible.
“This tragedy also heightens our concerns about the lax enforcement of safety standards, especially in high-risk sectors such as the offshore oil and gas industry, where the stakes are exceptionally high. Only with stringent compliance measures, comprehensive safeguards, and a commitment from employers and regulators alike can we truly protect the lives of those who operate in such complex and dangerous environments.
“While this tragic loss was labelled an “accident,” it underscores the critical
need for reliable flight equipment, effective communication, and robust
search-and-rescue capabilities. We urgently call on the relevant agencies in aviation and oil and gas to enact rigorous frameworks that prioritise workers’ safety and prevent further tragedies.
“The NLC demands that the federal government, through all pertinent
agencies, conducts a thorough investigation into the causes of this crash.
“Only through a comprehensive inquiry can we uncover the lessons necessary to prevent such tragedies in the future and ensure that Nigerian workers are better protected.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased, particularly our affiliates, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, and the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, NAAPE, who have lost valued members in this terrible accident. We pray for strength and comfort for those mourning and for the entire nation, shaken by this heavy loss.
“The Nigeria Labour Congress reaffirms its unwavering commitment to advocating for enhanced workplace safety and health across all sectors. It is only by championing these values that we can avoid future tragedies and honour the memory of those we have lost.”
